Premier Caroline Cochrane to assume Municipal and Community Affairs Portfolio

by ahnationtalk onApril 7, 202070 Views

Premier Caroline Cochrane announced that she will assume the portfolio of Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) effective today.

The global COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented challenge for the Northwest Territories that is unlike anything ever before experienced in the history of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT). Effectively managing the GNWT’s preparations and response to help slow the spread of COVID-19 among our people and manage its impact on the NWT will require an extraordinary effort and cooperation from all departments. Overseeing this collaborative effort is consistent with the Premier’s responsibilities in the Executive Establishment Policy to provide overall management and direction to the Executive Branch of the Government of the Northwest Territories.

In her role as Minister of MACA, Premier Cochrane will be responsible for administering the Emergency Management Act and carrying out the responsibilities set out in it, including declaring states of emergency, overseeing the Emergency Management Organization, and leading the management of the GNWT’s overall emergency response.

Minister Chinna retains her roles as Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation and Minister Responsible for Homelessness.

Quote

“The challenge COVID-19 presents to the Northwest Territories requires a coordinated, team approach from Cabinet to manage successfully. As leader of the team, I feel it is my responsibility to take a more hands-on role in managing the Cabinet team and directing the government’s response through personal leadership of the Emergency Management Organization. Minister Chinna continues to play a vital role in contributing to the overall government response to COVID-19, along with all other Ministers, and I thank them all for their commitment and efforts in their portfolios.”

– Caroline Cochrane, Premier of the Northwest Territories

Quick Facts

Under the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act (LAEC Act), the Executive Council is composed of a Premier chosen by the Legislative Assembly and persons appointed by the Commissioner on the advice of the Legislative Assembly.

The Commissioner, on the advice of the Premier, may appoint Ministers from among the Members of the Executive Council. The Commissioner may also revoke appointments as Minister on the advice of the Premier.

The Executive Council is responsible for the overall management and direction of the executive government of the Northwest Territories, including matters of policy.